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The Principal's Report
Last Friday morning was one of my highlights in my fourth decade of teaching and eighth year as Principal. Despite this being our sixth round of remote learning and what we had all been through last year, seeing those Year 5, 6, 7, 10 and 11 students marching through the gates on Friday morning was a special experience.
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We know De La Salle College is a wonderful school, and we believe most of the students think along those lines as well, but to see the sheer joy on their faces (behind masks they were dutifully wearing) and the literal spring in their step as they came in after so long away was actually quite moving. There may have been a few dodgy haircuts which we can live with in the short term, but the students presented exceptionally well, even though a few may have outgrown their 2021 uniforms over the lockdown!
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In visiting nearly all the classes in recent days and chatting to the students, their enthusiasm around the return to school, some semblance of normality and catching up with friends was great to see. While, as parents and teachers we often see our kids as complex characters, but in seeing them return to mixing, socialising, downball/four-square, lunchtime footy and soccer…..things revert to normal pretty quickly. It was a great day, best summed up by a Year 10, who in response to my question, “Are you glad to be back?” replied with, “Best school day – ever!”
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Students have settled back into the routine of school very well and taking the relevant Department of Health advice, quite a few classes are being run outside. It is very gratifying as a Principal to walk around the yard and see students working away perfectly calmly, seated at outdoor benches and seats, with teachers and education support staff supporting and engaging with different groups while others work independently.
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It has been a very smooth return to onsite learning for all Year Levels and I must thank all parents for their support and understanding during the challenges of remote learning. Your sons have been cared for, nurtured, (and hounded in equal measure, as required) educated and taught valuable lessons, by dedicated staff who did an extraordinary job in coping and delivering when it counted and when your sons needed them most.
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We should all be proud of both staff and students alike. I know I am.
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